Sunderland take a Gamble on local lad Owen

The Black Cats signed Owen Gamble from Doncaster Rovers, and the 15-year-old has already relocated and started at a new school.

Gamble began his footballing education with Babworth in the Under 7s, before moving on to Retford United.

Rovers spotted him and took him into their academy system, and the evidence of his progression is a four year deal at the Stadium of Light.

Proud mum Kay Mowbray told the Guardian she was overwhelmed with pride, although it was bittersweet watching him leave.

“It’s a big achievement, I think he’s so brave to go up there and live, and start at a new school,” she said.

“I’m so proud of him, he’s always been a gifted lad and so determined.”

“But I’m lost without him.”

A former Bassetlaw Boys representative under the watchful eye of legendary district manager Jack Tarr, Gamble went to North Leverton Primary and then Retford Oaks Academy.

Tarr remembers him well, especially after one famous day out at Wembley Stadium.

He said: “He played for me at North Leverton and scored the winner at Wembley in the final of the National Small Schools Championship.”

“He was a very talented lad with a good attitude, and sensible parents, and you could tell he was destined to go further.”

Now Gamble is balancing his studies with footballing duties at the Academy of Light.

Kay said: “He’s living with a family up there, Sunderland are really taking care of him.”

“He goes to school part of the time then has private tuition for the rest of the schooling.”

“And he’s loving it – last weekend he actually opted not to come home. This weekend I told him he better not dare opt to stay up there.”

Moving to a professional club always looked likely for Gamble, with the likes of Manchester City watching him during his rise up the youth ranks.

But his family were keen to ensure any deal came at the right time.

“There have always been clubs after him, but we always said he woudln’t go until he was 13, because going at seven or eight is just too young.”

It’s no secret that most of the youngsters who get snapped up by big clubs don’t end up gracing the hallowed turf of Premier League grounds as professional players.

And in the midst of their delight, that fact is not lost on Gamble’s loved ones.

Kay added: “I’m not stupid enough to think this means he’s going to make it as a footballer, but he’s got four years to give it a good go and enjoy this new life up there.”